“At the end of the day we have to fund these things,” said Welborn, an eight-year representative who was elected to the Senate this year. “That bridge outside of Butte is a textbook example of what happens when you don’t address needs on a timely basis.” Link — http://helenair.com/news/state-and-regional/united-front-cities-join-others-for-big-infrastructure-lobbying-push/article_2e601293-46d2-512c-b28b-54fa88fa3b32.html

Democrats and Republicans say the state should play a role in addressing deteriorating roads, bridges and sewer and water infrastructure throughout Montana. Link — http://www.dailyinterlake.com/article/20161225/ARTICLE/161229888

The Montana Department of Transportation has announced that at least $127 million in highway construction projects will be delayed until May 2017 due to lack of funds. The Governor’s budget not only fails to shore up the budget, but cuts it $200 million more from the FY18 budget. Link — http://www.bigskybusiness.com/index.php/government/montana/4630-lack-of-funds-delays-highway-construction-projects

Poll: By a 5:1 margin, Montana voters support legislation that would cap the Coal Tax Trust Fund at a balance of $1 billion and have future funds invested in critical infrastructure projects around the state (69% support, 14% oppose). Link — http://www.bigskybusiness.com/index.php/business/montana-business/4640-what-are-montanans-thinking

Billings Gazette opinion: Montana running out of gas tax. This is a great return on Montanans’ money. Let’s consider paying a dime more for gas because we need better roads, adequate safety patrols and good jobs for Montanans.

A clean and reliable water source for drinking, cooking, growing food, and basic hygiene needs provides the foundation for healthy communities and vibrant economies. According to the Montana chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers, Montana has over 5,300 miles of water distribution and transmission piping – a longer stretch than driving from Billings […]

The Montana Department of Transportation has an annual budget of over $710 million. Over $390 million of that money comes from the Federal government by way of grants through the Federal Highway Administration. The monies from the Feds are doled out on a project-by-project basis with the State of Montana responsible for approximately 13 percent […]

FINAL DAY of the #InfrastructureWeek2018 MT tour! Helena!
IMPORTANT - Please note the change in meeting location. Due to inclement weather, we'll be meeting today at 2pm in Room 326 of the City County building at 316 N. Park Ave. Please join us!